Soft tissue alternatives in head and neck reconstruction: Recent developments in bioengineering

Advances in bioengineering have resulted in the production of several new materials for soft tissue reconstruction. Recent noteworthy developments include skin substitutes and dermal equivalents. These materials are currently employed by head and neck reconstructive and facial plastic surgeons. This paper reviews the current status of bioengineered soft tissue replacements, defining the roles and limitations of these materials in the clinical practice of otolaryngology and head and neck surgery.